Manning Family Children's Holiday Parade 2026
The holiday season is rolling into New Orleans as the fifth annual Manning Family Children's Holiday Parade returns to downtown on Saturday, December 5, 2026.
Beginning at 11 a.m., the family-friendly celebration will bring festive floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and holiday cheer to the streets of the French Quarter and Central Business District.
Since its debut in 2022, this free parade has become a growing holiday tradition, bringing families together while supporting the mission of Manning Family Children's, the region's only freestanding comprehensive children's hospital.
Holiday Floats, Giant Balloons, and Festive Fun Take Over Downtown
This year's parade will feature approximately 30 holiday-themed floats, high-flying helium balloons, and more than a dozen marching bands and dance groups. Thousands of spectators are expected to line the streets to enjoy the festivities.
The celebration combines traditional New Orleans parade culture with the magic of the holiday season, featuring colorful floats, festive decorations, and entertainment for children and adults alike. Previous parades have also featured Santa Claus, holiday characters, and specially designed floats with animated decorations, lighting effects, and music.
One of the parade's most meaningful traditions has been its signature throws. In previous years, young patients at Manning Family Children's decorated ornaments that were distributed to parade-goers, connecting the holiday celebration with the children who benefit from the hospital's work.
The event is organized in partnership with Kern Studios and other community supporters, bringing together local organizations and businesses to create a memorable holiday experience.
Where Will the Holiday Parade Roll?
The 2026 Manning Family Children's Holiday Parade will begin near the French Market and travel through the French Quarter before continuing into downtown New Orleans.
According to the published route, the procession will stage along Elysian Fields Avenue before traveling along North Peters Street and Decatur Street. It will then turn onto Canal Street, make a U-turn near Burgundy Street, and continue toward Tchoupitoulas Street. The parade is scheduled to conclude near Andrew Higgins Drive.
The route offers several viewing opportunities, including the French Market area, Canal Street, and portions of the Central Business District. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Since the parade will travel through some of the city's busiest streets, visitors should anticipate temporary road closures and allow additional time for parking and transportation. Attendees should also consult the official parade website for any route updates before the event.
Supporting Manning Family Children's
Beyond the holiday entertainment, the parade highlights the mission of Manning Family Children's, a nonprofit pediatric medical center dedicated to improving children's health throughout Louisiana and the Gulf Coast.
Formerly known as Children's Hospital New Orleans, Manning Family Children's has served the region for more than 70 years. The hospital operates a 263-bed medical center and provides comprehensive healthcare services for children from birth through age 21.
With more than 550 pediatric physicians and 2,400 employees, the hospital offers specialized pediatric services and academic medical programs in partnership with LSU Health New Orleans and Tulane University School of Medicine.
The hospital also emphasizes providing care to children regardless of their families' ability to pay. Through community events such as the holiday parade, Manning Family Children's raises awareness of its mission while bringing joy to the families it serves.
The parade is made possible through partnerships with local organizations, including Kern Studios, which helps bring the elaborate holiday floats and displays to life.
How to Attend the 2026 Holiday Parade
The fifth annual Manning Family Children's Holiday Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 5, 2026, beginning at 11 a.m. near the French Market in downtown New Orleans.
The parade is free and open to the public, making it an accessible way for families and visitors to kick off the holiday season. The procession is expected to run until approximately 1 p.m.
Whether you're hoping to catch a holiday-themed throw, watch a marching band, or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, the parade offers a uniquely New Orleans way to celebrate the season.
For more information, parade updates, and route details, visit nolaholidayparade.com.
